According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, India's remains the world's biggest arms importer with a share of its imports, increasing by 4.7% per year since 2014.

India tops global arms imports, Russia remains India's top arms supplier

An Indian Air Force fighter jet crashed Tuesday (Mar 12)&nbsp;near Jaisalmer during an operational training sortie. A Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas fighter jet was involved in the accident. Fortunately, the&nbsp;pilot ejected safely in time. A Court of Inquiry has been ordered to ascertain the cause of the accident, ANI reported.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Rajasthan | A Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas of the Indian Air Force crashed near Jaisalmer today during an operational training sortie. The pilot ejected safely. A Court of Inquiry has been ordered to ascertain the cause of the accident. <a href="https://t.co/3JZf15Q8eZ">pic.twitter.com/3JZf15Q8eZ</a>
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The incident took place in the region where Prime Minister Narendra Modi was witnessing 'Bharat Shakti', the integrated tri-service firepower and manoeuvre exercise. The 50-minute mega exercise was held to demonstrate the prowess of indigenously manufactured defence equipment of the three services. PM Modi was accompanied by delegates from 30 nations.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Rajasthan | Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with delegates from more than 30 countries, witnesses exercise "Bharat Shakti" at the Pokhran field firing range in Jaisalmer. <a href="https://t.co/33u8BewMQU">pic.twitter.com/33u8BewMQU</a>
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<h2>PM Modi pushes 'Make in India' agenda</h2>

PM Modi took the opportunity to push his government's 'make in India' initiative in defence sector.&nbsp;"If we want to make India 'viksit', then we need to reduce our dependence on others. That's why India is focusing on 'atmanirbharta' in every sector - from edible oils to modern aircraft," said PM Modi.

"In the last 10 years, the country's defence production has more than doubled, which means it is more than ₹1 lakh crore. The youth are playing a key role in this. In the last 10 years, over 150 defence startups have started in the country, and our forces have decided to give them orders worth ₹1,800 crore. An 'atmanirbhar' India in defence sector is a guarantee of 'atmavishwas' in forces," he added.

The Bharat Shakti exercise&nbsp;featured indigenous weapon systems: T-90 (IM) Tanks, Dhanush and Sarang Gun Systems, Akash Weapons System, Logistics Drones, Robotic Mules, ALH, and various unmanned aerial vehicles.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Indian Navy&nbsp;displayed&nbsp;Naval Anti-Ship Missiles, Autonomous Cargo Carrying Aerial Vehicles, and Expendable Aerial Targets. The Indian Air Force&nbsp;showcased&nbsp;indigenous aircraft: Light Combat Aircraft Tejas, Light Utility Helicopters, and Advanced Light Helicopters. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

An Indian Air Force fighter jet crashed Tuesday (Mar 12) near Jaisalmer during an operational training sortie. A Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas fighter jet was involved in the accident.

An Indian Air Force fighter jet crashed Tuesday (Mar 12) near Jaisalmer during an operational training sortie. A Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas fighter jet was involved in the accident. Fortunately, the pilot ejected safely in time. A Court of Inquiry has been ordered to ascertain the cause of the accident, ANI reported. #WATCH | Rajasthan | A Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas of the Indian Air Force crashed near Jaisalmer today during an operational training sortie. The pilot ejected safely. A Court of Inquiry has been ordered to ascertain the cause of the accident. pic.twitter.com/3JZf15Q8eZ — ANI (@ANI) March 12, 2024 × The incident took place in the region where Prime Minister Narendra Modi was witnessing 'Bharat Shakti', the integrated tri-service firepower and manoeuvre exercise. The 50-minute mega exercise was held to demonstrate the prowess of indigenously manufactured defence equipment of the three services. PM Modi was accompanied by delegates from 30 nations. #WATCH | Rajasthan | Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with delegates from more than 30 countries, witnesses exercise "Bharat Shakti" at the Pokhran field firing range in Jaisalmer. pic.twitter.com/33u8BewMQU — ANI (@ANI) March 12, 2024 × #WATCH | Rajasthan | Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with delegates from more than 30 countries, witnesses exercise "Bharat Shakti" at the Pokhran field firing range in Jaisalmer. pic.twitter.com/4nAbuQMeWr — ANI (@ANI) March 12, 2024 × PM Modi pushes 'Make in India' agenda PM Modi took the opportunity to push his government's 'make in India' initiative in defence sector. "If we want to make India 'viksit', then we need to reduce our dependence on others. That's why India is focusing on 'atmanirbharta' in every sector - from edible oils to modern aircraft," said PM Modi. "In the last 10 years, the country's defence production has more than doubled, which means it is more than ₹1 lakh crore. The youth are playing a key role in this. In the last 10 years, over 150 defence startups have started in the country, and our forces have decided to give them orders worth ₹1,800 crore. An 'atmanirbhar' India in defence sector is a guarantee of 'atmavishwas' in forces," he added. The Bharat Shakti exercise featured indigenous weapon systems: T-90 (IM) Tanks, Dhanush and Sarang Gun Systems, Akash Weapons System, Logistics Drones, Robotic Mules, ALH, and various unmanned aerial vehicles. Meanwhile, the Indian Navy displayed Naval Anti-Ship Missiles, Autonomous Cargo Carrying Aerial Vehicles, and Expendable Aerial Targets. The Indian Air Force showcased indigenous aircraft: Light Combat Aircraft Tejas, Light Utility Helicopters, and Advanced Light Helicopters. (With inputs from agencies)

IAF jet crashes in Jaisalmer, pilot ejects safely; PM Modi witnesses tri-service ‘Bharat Shakti’ exercise

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: Pokhran is hosting ‘Bharat Shakti’ the integrated tri-service firepower and manoeuvre exercise. PM Modi witnesses the first-of-its-kind exercise in Pokhran.

India: PM Modi's visit to Gujarat & Rajasthan

Pokhran is hosting ‘Bharat Shakti’ the integrated tri-service firepower and manoeuvre exercise. PM Modi witnesses the first-of-its-kind exercise in Pokhran.

Indian PM Narendra Modi oversees tri-service 'Bharat Shakti' exercise in Pokhran

India: PM Modi witnesses tri-service 'Bharat Shakti' exercise in Pokhran

PM Modi witnesses tri-service 'Bharat Shakti' exercise in Pokhran

Elections are around the corner in India. Indian govt notifies CAA rules ahead of elections. Politics in India has heated up. Opposition and govt are at crossroads over CAA. Watch this video for all details.

CAA rules notified: These Indian states say they won't let CAA be implemented

India yesterday, Mission Divyastra - the first flight test of indigenously developed Agni-5 missile with Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) technology.

India test-fires Agni-V ballistic missile, joins 'select group of nations'

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a 12-day state visit ahead of the general elections today. Prime Minister Modi will be visiting the western state of Rajasthan along with delegates from 40 countries.

Indian PM Modi oversees 'Bharat Shakti' exercise

Indian low-cost carrier, IndiGo’s co-founder, Rakesh Gangwal, has sold 5.8 per cent stake in operator Interglobe Aviation via bulk deals, raising a sum of ₹6,785 crore ($820.3 million) on Monday.<o:p></o:p>

According to BSE data, the sale involved 22.5 million shares at an average price ranging from ₹3,015.10 to ₹3,016.36 per share. <o:p></o:p>

Morgan Stanley Asia Singapore Pte acquired 2.1 million shares, amounting to a 0.5 per cent stake, for ₹633 crore. <o:p></o:p>

After this transaction, Gangwal's stake in the company has further decreased to 6 per cent, resulting in a reduction of the promoter group's holding to 57.3 per cent.<o:p></o:p>

This move comes after the co-founder's previous stake sales, including a 4 per cent stake for ₹2,900 crore in February and a 2.8 per cent stake worth ₹2,000 crore in September 2022. <o:p></o:p>

Gangwal and his wife Rekha have been gradually reducing their shareholding in Interglobe Aviation over the past two years. <o:p></o:p>

While Rekha exited the firm entirely in August 2022, their Chinkerpoo Family Trust still holds a 13.49 per cent stake in the company, making it the second-largest shareholder as of December 31. <o:p></o:p>

The co-founder's decision to sell his stake aligns with his plans to dilute the family's ownership, as announced in February 2022. <o:p></o:p>

In August 2022, Gangwal's family divested a stake worth $450 million.<o:p></o:p>

Despite the stake sale, IndiGo's shares settled 3.6 per cent higher at ₹3,218.55 on the day of the transaction, reflecting positive market sentiment. <o:p></o:p>

The stock has witnessed an 8.5 per cent rise since the beginning of the year. <o:p></o:p>

The sale, being the largest block sale in India since 2019, has garnered attention within the financial landscape. <o:p></o:p>

The co-founder's move to offload a substantial stake indicates dynamic shifts within IndiGo and is an indication of Gangwal's ongoing efforts to reposition his investment portfolio.<o:p></o:p>

According to a report by Mint, Gangwal's recent investment of $20 million in the manufacturing services company Zetwerk on March 7 showcases his continued involvement in diverse business ventures. <o:p></o:p>

Zetwerk's statement highlighted Gangwal's extensive experience and strategic guidance.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

Indian low-cost carrier, IndiGo’s co-founder, Rakesh Gangwal, has sold 5.8 per cent stake in operator Interglobe Aviation via bulk deals, raising a sum of ₹6,785 crore ($820.

Indian low-cost carrier, IndiGo’s co-founder, Rakesh Gangwal, has sold 5.8 per cent stake in operator Interglobe Aviation via bulk deals, raising a sum of ₹6,785 crore ($820.3 million) on Monday. According to BSE data, the sale involved 22.5 million shares at an average price ranging from ₹3,015.10 to ₹3,016.36 per share. Morgan Stanley Asia Singapore Pte acquired 2.1 million shares, amounting to a 0.5 per cent stake, for ₹633 crore. After this transaction, Gangwal's stake in the company has further decreased to 6 per cent, resulting in a reduction of the promoter group's holding to 57.3 per cent. This move comes after the co-founder's previous stake sales, including a 4 per cent stake for ₹2,900 crore in February and a 2.8 per cent stake worth ₹2,000 crore in September 2022. Gangwal and his wife Rekha have been gradually reducing their shareholding in Interglobe Aviation over the past two years. While Rekha exited the firm entirely in August 2022, their Chinkerpoo Family Trust still holds a 13.49 per cent stake in the company, making it the second-largest shareholder as of December 31. The co-founder's decision to sell his stake aligns with his plans to dilute the family's ownership, as announced in February 2022. In August 2022, Gangwal's family divested a stake worth $450 million. Despite the stake sale, IndiGo's shares settled 3.6 per cent higher at ₹3,218.55 on the day of the transaction, reflecting positive market sentiment. The stock has witnessed an 8.5 per cent rise since the beginning of the year. The sale, being the largest block sale in India since 2019, has garnered attention within the financial landscape. The co-founder's move to offload a substantial stake indicates dynamic shifts within IndiGo and is an indication of Gangwal's ongoing efforts to reposition his investment portfolio. According to a report by Mint, Gangwal's recent investment of $20 million in the manufacturing services company Zetwerk on March 7 showcases his continued involvement in diverse business ventures. Zetwerk's statement highlighted Gangwal's extensive experience and strategic guidance. (With inputs from Reuters)

IndiGo's co-founder Rakesh Gangwal sells $820 million stake in bulk deal

With declining groundwater levels and diminishing reservoirs India's Bengaluru city known as the country's Silicon Valley is now facing an unprecedented Water Crisis. The city's residents are short of nearly 1,680 million litres of water daily.

Bengaluru water crisis: India's IT hub battles water crisis

Maharashtra Anti-Terror Squad (ATS) on Monday (Mar 11) arrested a man from Mumbai's Mazagaon Dockyard for allegedly leaking information to India's neighbouring nation Pakistan. Notably, India's latest submarines are being fabricated and assembled in these docks.&nbsp;

A case has been registered by the ATS under the Official Secrets Act against the accused, who has been identified as Kalpesh Baikar, and others on his contact list.&nbsp;

The 31-year-old man is said to be a structural fabricator, a professional who specialises in structural steel and plate. He is accused of sending sensitive information to a Pakistani Intelligence Operative (PIO). The Pakistani agent was reportedly a woman.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/this-indian-state-bans-artificial-colours-in-cotton-candy-and-gobi-manchurian-heres-why-699008">This Indian state bans artificial colours in cotton candy and Gobi Manchurian. Here's why</a>&nbsp;

He came in contact with the agent through social media platforms Facebook and WhatsApp between November 2021 and May 2023.&nbsp;

Local reports mentioned that the accused and the woman were in touch for months. Officers said he also got money in exchange for the information.&nbsp;

"Accused was interrogated by the Anti-Terrorism Squad. During the investigation, it was found that the suspect was introduced to a Pakistan based intelligence operative (PIO) through Facebook and WhatsApp between November 2021 and May 2023," the statement said.&nbsp;

"The suspect chatted with PIO on Facebook, WhatsApp account and was arrested by Indian government," it added.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-japan-expected-to-finalise-unicorn-deal-during-quad-summit-698987">India, Japan expected to finalise 'UNICORN' antennas deal during Quad summit</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;General Elections 2024: BJP, Congress discuss second list of candidates&nbsp;

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The ATS officers have not revealed details of the information allegedly leaked to the Pakistani agent. Meanwhile, a probe has been launched.&nbsp;

Reports have mentioned that Baikar joined Mazgaon Shipbuilders in 2014. He hails from Poynad in Alibaug, where he completed his schooling from KESNN high school and junior College &amp; fitter trade from ITI Alibaug.&nbsp;

According to sources, Kalpesh had been chatting with a woman, who allegedly ensnared him. Then he is said to have shared important information with his social media friends in exchange for money.&nbsp;

A similar case happened in December last year when the Maharashtra ATS arrested 23-year-old Gaurav Patil for allegedly sharing confidential information with a PIO agent. Patil also worked at Mazgaon Dockyard in Mumbai.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Maharashtra Anti-Terror Squad (ATS) on Monday (Mar 11) arrested a man from Mumbai's Mazagaon Dockyard for allegedly leaking information to India's neighbouring nation Pakistan.

Maharashtra Anti-Terror Squad (ATS) on Monday (Mar 11) arrested a man from Mumbai's Mazagaon Dockyard for allegedly leaking information to India's neighbouring nation Pakistan. Notably, India's latest submarines are being fabricated and assembled in these docks. A case has been registered by the ATS under the Official Secrets Act against the accused, who has been identified as Kalpesh Baikar, and others on his contact list. The 31-year-old man is said to be a structural fabricator, a professional who specialises in structural steel and plate. He is accused of sending sensitive information to a Pakistani Intelligence Operative (PIO). The Pakistani agent was reportedly a woman. Also read: This Indian state bans artificial colours in cotton candy and Gobi Manchurian. Here's why He came in contact with the agent through social media platforms Facebook and WhatsApp between November 2021 and May 2023. Local reports mentioned that the accused and the woman were in touch for months. Officers said he also got money in exchange for the information. "Accused was interrogated by the Anti-Terrorism Squad. During the investigation, it was found that the suspect was introduced to a Pakistan based intelligence operative (PIO) through Facebook and WhatsApp between November 2021 and May 2023," the statement said. "The suspect chatted with PIO on Facebook, WhatsApp account and was arrested by Indian government," it added. Also read: India, Japan expected to finalise 'UNICORN' antennas deal during Quad summit Watch: General Elections 2024: BJP, Congress discuss second list of candidates × The ATS officers have not revealed details of the information allegedly leaked to the Pakistani agent. Meanwhile, a probe has been launched. Reports have mentioned that Baikar joined Mazgaon Shipbuilders in 2014. He hails from Poynad in Alibaug, where he completed his schooling from KESNN high school and junior College & fitter trade from ITI Alibaug. According to sources, Kalpesh had been chatting with a woman, who allegedly ensnared him. Then he is said to have shared important information with his social media friends in exchange for money. A similar case happened in December last year when the Maharashtra ATS arrested 23-year-old Gaurav Patil for allegedly sharing confidential information with a PIO agent. Patil also worked at Mazgaon Dockyard in Mumbai. (With inputs from agencies)

Mumbai dockyard staffer arrested for leaking sensitive information to female Pakistan agent

Norway's Minister of Trade and Industry Jan Christian Vestre has underscored the transformative impact of the Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) signed between India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). In an exclusive interview with our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant&nbsp;Sibal, Vestre stated, "98% of the Indian exports into Norway will have zero customs duties and tariffs." He elaborated that this measure "will make Indian products and services more competitive on the Norwegian market."&nbsp;

Emphasising the broader significance of the agreement, Vestre remarked, "This agreement is about so much more than only reducing the tariffs. It's more about really seizing opportunities together and make sure that we can create sustainable growth together." The TEPA, inked in Delhi among India and EFTA nations Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland, also includes provisions to bolster investments.

Vestre affirmed the investment commitments, stating, "We are committed to promote business opportunities to mobilise private investments by creating the ecosystem, the predictable framework conditions needed and of course also the foundation so that companies really can invest and grow and create the new jobs."&nbsp;

Here is the full interview:

WION: How big is this milestone?

Jan Christian Vestre: I would say,&nbsp;Aj ka din atehasik hai&nbsp;(today is a historic day).&nbsp;This is a day for the history books. It's really a breakthrough. It will create more trade, more investments, more jobs, beneficial for both India and for the countries including Norway. So, I'm very happy today and extremely optimistic about the future.&nbsp;

WION: If you can talk about the details, one of the key focuses has been the investment announcement of 100 billion dollars in 15 years. These are commitments. How will these commitments get fulfilled?

Jan Christian Vestre: We are committed to promoting&nbsp;business opportunities to mobilise private investments by creating the ecosystem, the predictable framework conditions needed and of course also the foundation so that companies really can invest and grow and create new jobs.

And, I think that trade agreement is really a breakthrough because now we will reduce and eliminate almost all the tariffs. We will set up an office together and rally a joint effort to promote the business opportunities to get rid of the obstacles, the challenges, to deal with them as they come along to&nbsp;make it easier for the companies to use the opportunities here. We have also agreed to work together on some big global challenges such as climate reductions, CO2 reductions, how to speed up the green transition, how to get more investments into renewable energy, and so on and so on. So, it's really an important framework.

WION: Trade pacts&nbsp;are all about reducing customs duties, making sure market access is given, if you can talk about that...

Jan Christian Vestre: Talking on Norway's behalf we already did reduce the customs duties and tariffs on many Indian products and services already. From now on, 98 per cent&nbsp;of the Indian exports into Norway will have zero customs duties and tariffs, thus making Indian products and services more competitive on the Norwegian market.

We did give better market access for some agricultural products, some fruit, some vegetables, flowers, and some other important issues for Indian exporters. And we have got the same back from India. But this agreement is about so much more than only reducing the tariffs. It's more about really seizing opportunities together and making sure that we can create sustainable growth together.

WION: How will the trade pact help in&nbsp;diversification?

Jan Christian Vestre: It will really help in diversifying our economies, but it will also help to green our economies, to really speed up the green transition in terms of renewable energy, hydrogen batteries, carbon capture and storage, solar energy and so on.

When we talk about some of those value chains, we are really dependent on other countries and I think like minded countries like India and Europe, it's important that we you know, really stay strong together and make stronger ties together, making sure that we do control those value chains and that they will be equal beneficial for all of us and that's what we have reached with this agreement.

WION: Are we looking at the services sector also under this trade pact?&nbsp;

Jan Christian Vestre: Yes, on services. I mean, in Norway, we&nbsp;already have the privilege of welcoming 20,000 highly skilled Indians to Norway. A lot of Norwegian companies wouldn't have reached this far if it was not for the expertise and the competence, and the knowledge represented by the Indian people. And that's also something we encourage, and we invite, of course, skilled workers also to come to Norway, simply because some of the really big challenges the world is facing today is something that we have to team up together on solving. And that's why India and Norway are stronger together.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Norway's Minister of Trade and Industry Jan Christian Vestre has underscored the transformative impact of the Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) signed between India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA).

Norway's Minister of Trade and Industry Jan Christian Vestre has underscored the transformative impact of the Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) signed between India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). In an exclusive interview with our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Vestre stated, "98% of the Indian exports into Norway will have zero customs duties and tariffs." He elaborated that this measure "will make Indian products and services more competitive on the Norwegian market." Emphasising the broader significance of the agreement, Vestre remarked, "This agreement is about so much more than only reducing the tariffs. It's more about really seizing opportunities together and make sure that we can create sustainable growth together." The TEPA, inked in Delhi among India and EFTA nations Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland, also includes provisions to bolster investments. Vestre affirmed the investment commitments, stating, "We are committed to promote business opportunities to mobilise private investments by creating the ecosystem, the predictable framework conditions needed and of course also the foundation so that companies really can invest and grow and create the new jobs." Here is the full interview: WION: How big is this milestone? Jan Christian Vestre: I would say, Aj ka din atehasik hai (today is a historic day). This is a day for the history books. It's really a breakthrough. It will create more trade, more investments, more jobs, beneficial for both India and for the countries including Norway. So, I'm very happy today and extremely optimistic about the future. WION: If you can talk about the details, one of the key focuses has been the investment announcement of 100 billion dollars in 15 years. These are commitments. How will these commitments get fulfilled? Jan Christian Vestre: We are committed to promoting business opportunities to mobilise private investments by creating the ecosystem, the predictable framework conditions needed and of course also the foundation so that companies really can invest and grow and create new jobs. And, I think that trade agreement is really a breakthrough because now we will reduce and eliminate almost all the tariffs. We will set up an office together and rally a joint effort to promote the business opportunities to get rid of the obstacles, the challenges, to deal with them as they come along to make it easier for the companies to use the opportunities here. We have also agreed to work together on some big global challenges such as climate reductions, CO2 reductions, how to speed up the green transition, how to get more investments into renewable energy, and so on and so on. So, it's really an important framework. WION: Trade pacts are all about reducing customs duties, making sure market access is given, if you can talk about that... Jan Christian Vestre: Talking on Norway's behalf we already did reduce the customs duties and tariffs on many Indian products and services already. From now on, 98 per cent of the Indian exports into Norway will have zero customs duties and tariffs, thus making Indian products and services more competitive on the Norwegian market. We did give better market access for some agricultural products, some fruit, some vegetables, flowers, and some other important issues for Indian exporters. And we have got the same back from India. But this agreement is about so much more than only reducing the tariffs. It's more about really seizing opportunities together and making sure that we can create sustainable growth together. WION: How will the trade pact help in diversification? Jan Christian Vestre: It will really help in diversifying our economies, but it will also help to green our economies, to really speed up the green transition in terms of renewable energy, hydrogen batteries, carbon capture and storage, solar energy and so on. When we talk about some of those value chains, we are really dependent on other countries and I think like minded countries like India and Europe, it's important that we you know, really stay strong together and make stronger ties together, making sure that we do control those value chains and that they will be equal beneficial for all of us and that's what we have reached with this agreement. WION: Are we looking at the services sector also under this trade pact? Jan Christian Vestre: Yes, on services. I mean, in Norway, we already have the privilege of welcoming 20,000 highly skilled Indians to Norway. A lot of Norwegian companies wouldn't have reached this far if it was not for the expertise and the competence, and the knowledge represented by the Indian people. And that's also something we encourage, and we invite, of course, skilled workers also to come to Norway, simply because some of the really big challenges the world is facing today is something that we have to team up together on solving. And that's why India and Norway are stronger together.

Exclusive: Norway grants 98% of Indian exports zero customs duties under TEPA

Recent data from the Maldives tourism ministry has indicated&nbsp;a drop&nbsp;of&nbsp;33 per cent in number of Indian tourists visiting&nbsp;the country in March 2024, compared to the previous year, reported local media outlet&nbsp;Adhadhu.

In March 2023, over 41,000 Indian tourists visited Maldives, whereas only 27,224 were recorded in March 2024. The primary cause attributed to this decline is India's tourism campaign encouraging citizens to explore the Lakshadweep islands instead of travelling to Maldives.

Until March 2023, India held the position of the second largest source of tourism for Maldives, commanding a 10 per cent market share. However, due to escalating diplomatic tensions between the two nations, India has slipped to sixth place, now holding only a six percent market share.

<h2>Rise of Chinese tourism</h2>

Conversely, China has witnessed a surge in tourist arrivals to Maldives, coinciding with strengthening ties between China and Maldives. With over 54,000 tourist arrivals from China in 2024, it&nbsp;has become the leading source of tourism for Maldives, commanding a significant portion of the market.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maldives-president-muizzu-affirms-absence-of-indian-troops-on-his-island-beyond-may-10-696788">Also read |&nbsp;Amid diplomatic row with India, Maldives inches closer to China for ‘free’ military aid</a>

<h2>Impact of diplomatic row</h2>

The decline in Indian tourism to Maldives can be traced&nbsp;to the appointment of President Mohamed Muizzu, perceived as pro-China. Muizzu's decision to expel Indian military personnel from Maldives further exacerbated tensions between the two countries. The situation escalated when Maldivian ministers made derogatory remarks about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on social media, sparking widespread condemnation.

Also watch |&nbsp;Maldives sacks 3 ministers for insulting comments on PM Modi | India-Maldives comments row

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President Muizzu's visit to China shortly after the derogatory comments against PM Modi aimed to solicit support for reviving Maldives' tourism sector. He stressed on the importance of China's role in boosting the Maldivian economy through tourism, citing China's pre-Covid&nbsp;status as Maldives' primary tourism market.

(With inputs from agencies)

Recent data from the Maldives tourism ministry has indicated a drop of 33 per cent in number of Indian tourists visiting the country in March 2024, compared to the previous year, reported local media outlet Adhadhu.

Recent data from the Maldives tourism ministry has indicated a drop of 33 per cent in number of Indian tourists visiting the country in March 2024, compared to the previous year, reported local media outlet Adhadhu. In March 2023, over 41,000 Indian tourists visited Maldives, whereas only 27,224 were recorded in March 2024. The primary cause attributed to this decline is India's tourism campaign encouraging citizens to explore the Lakshadweep islands instead of travelling to Maldives. Until March 2023, India held the position of the second largest source of tourism for Maldives, commanding a 10 per cent market share. However, due to escalating diplomatic tensions between the two nations, India has slipped to sixth place, now holding only a six percent market share. Rise of Chinese tourism Conversely, China has witnessed a surge in tourist arrivals to Maldives, coinciding with strengthening ties between China and Maldives. With over 54,000 tourist arrivals from China in 2024, it has become the leading source of tourism for Maldives, commanding a significant portion of the market. Also read | Amid diplomatic row with India, Maldives inches closer to China for ‘free’ military aid Impact of diplomatic row The decline in Indian tourism to Maldives can be traced to the appointment of President Mohamed Muizzu, perceived as pro-China. Muizzu's decision to expel Indian military personnel from Maldives further exacerbated tensions between the two countries. The situation escalated when Maldivian ministers made derogatory remarks about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on social media, sparking widespread condemnation. Also watch | Maldives sacks 3 ministers for insulting comments on PM Modi | India-Maldives comments row President Muizzu's visit to China shortly after the derogatory comments against PM Modi aimed to solicit support for reviving Maldives' tourism sector. He stressed on the importance of China's role in boosting the Maldivian economy through tourism, citing China's pre-Covid status as Maldives' primary tourism market. (With inputs from agencies)

Maldives sees 33% dip in Indian tourists amid diplomatic row

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Bengaluru's renowned eatery, ‘The Rameshwaram Cafe’, is all set to resume operations on Saturday (Mar 9), following a low-intensity blast a week ago.&nbsp;Co-founders Divya and Raghavendra Rao have confirmed the attendance of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Deputy CM DK Shivakumar, and Home Minister Dr G Parameshwara at the reopening ceremony.

In response to the blast, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) announced a ₹1 million ($12K)&nbsp;cash reward for any information leading to the arrest&nbsp;of the suspected bomber. Taking charge of the probe earlier this week, NIA has intensified efforts to unravel the circumstances surrounding the explosion, which left at least 10 individuals wounded.

<h2>New CCTV footage emerges</h2>

Fresh CCTV footage has surfaced showing&nbsp;the suspected bomber boarding a BMTC (Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation) bus. This footage, sourced by news agency PTI, showed the suspect wearing&nbsp;a cap, face mask, glasses, black shoes and pants, and a greyish-green button-up shirt—moments before the incident.

<img alt="Rameshwaram cafe blast: In the latest visual of the suspected bomber, released by the NIA, he can be seen boarding a bus and changing seats." src="https://www.livemint.com/lm-img/img/2024/03/08/600x338/Rameshwaram_Cafe_blast_1709901898145_1709901905946.jpg" />

Rameshwaram Cafe blast suspect spotted inside&nbsp; BMTC bus. Source: Twitter

Earlier footage retrieved from the cafe's vicinity captured customers gathered at the billing counter mere moments before the explosion occurred.

Authorities have obtained a substantial amount of CCTV footage, estimated at 40 to 50 recordings, to aid in the investigation.

Karnataka's Director General of Police, Alok Mohan said investigations into the blast is&nbsp;ongoing.

FSL (Forensic Science Laboratory) teams have examined the premises and the city police commissioner and other officials remain actively involved in the inquiry.

Initial assessments suggest that the explosion was orchestrated through an Improvised Explosive Device (IED).

The Karnataka Police has registered a case under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and Explosives Substances Act, intensifying efforts to identify and arrest&nbsp;those responsible.

(With inputs from agencies)

Bengaluru's renowned eatery, ‘The Rameshwaram Cafe’, is all set to resume operations on Saturday (Mar 9), following a low-intensity blast a week ago. Co-founders Divya and Raghavendra Rao have confirmed the attendance of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Deputy CM DK Shivakumar, and Home Minister Dr G Parameshwara at the reopening ceremony.

Bengaluru's renowned eatery, ‘The Rameshwaram Cafe’, is all set to resume operations on Saturday (Mar 9), following a low-intensity blast a week ago. Co-founders Divya and Raghavendra Rao have confirmed the attendance of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Deputy CM DK Shivakumar, and Home Minister Dr G Parameshwara at the reopening ceremony. In response to the blast, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) announced a ₹1 million ($12K) cash reward for any information leading to the arrest of the suspected bomber. Taking charge of the probe earlier this week, NIA has intensified efforts to unravel the circumstances surrounding the explosion, which left at least 10 individuals wounded. New CCTV footage emerges Fresh CCTV footage has surfaced showing the suspected bomber boarding a BMTC (Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation) bus. This footage, sourced by news agency PTI, showed the suspect wearing a cap, face mask, glasses, black shoes and pants, and a greyish-green button-up shirt—moments before the incident. Rameshwaram Cafe blast suspect spotted inside BMTC bus. Source: Twitter Earlier footage retrieved from the cafe's vicinity captured customers gathered at the billing counter mere moments before the explosion occurred. Authorities have obtained a substantial amount of CCTV footage, estimated at 40 to 50 recordings, to aid in the investigation. Karnataka's Director General of Police, Alok Mohan said investigations into the blast is ongoing. FSL (Forensic Science Laboratory) teams have examined the premises and the city police commissioner and other officials remain actively involved in the inquiry. Initial assessments suggest that the explosion was orchestrated through an Improvised Explosive Device (IED). The Karnataka Police has registered a case under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and Explosives Substances Act, intensifying efforts to identify and arrest those responsible. (With inputs from agencies)

Rameshwaram Cafe: Bengaluru's famous eatery to reopen on March 9 after blast that injured 10

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